Early Andean Civilizations Mr. Millican’s Humanities Class

Nazca South coast of Peru – arid landscape Nazca culture flourished from about 200BC – 600AD

Nazca Dozens of Nazca images, many only visible from the air Known for their finely woven, multi-colored textiles

Moche North coast of Peru – arid landscape Built pyramids, like the 50m high Huaca del Sol

Moche Irrigation very important in dry climate Importance of water and art combine in Moche jars Moche culture flourished from about 1 to 800 AD

Wari Andean valleys terraced for more arable land Relatively dry and cool in Andean valleys—led to crop modification and usage of potato

Wari Wari culture flourished from 450 -1000 AD Roads and terracing used by Inca and expanded Distinctive textiles created by Wari

Tiwanaku Altiplano region around Lake Titicaca dry but with easier access to water Empire existed 200 – 1000 AD

Tiwanaku Roots of Inca mythology (Viracocha and Inti) Reeds from the lake were a key resource (floating islands) Chuño (freeze dried potatoes) developed

Chimor North coast of Peru – arid landscape Empire expanded into Andean valleys

Chimor Accomplished hydraulic engineers (Chan-Chan reservoir) Made jewelry of textiles and seashells Flourished 1100 – 1470 AD until conquered by Inca during their first large phase of expansion